I recently had the pleasure during a day off, of being able to head down to a small town in the area that has an "antique walk" - a collection of small antique stores scattered throughout its streets. Like the usual antique "mauls", condition and pricing don't seem to have much to do with each other. But amongst the overpriced, completely rusted metal planes, and wooden planes with blown cheeks and cracked soles I discovered a couple of gems.

For the same price that most wanted for their junktiques, I found a pair of wooden jointers (a 20" and a 24") in beautiful condition. Razor sharp irons

I couldn't pass them up. They came home with me. Price tag: $60 each.

However, the planes themselves, have no makers mark. No users mark. They are a mystery to me that I would like to find additional information on. From the type of wood, to the possible maker. Construction of the two planes is almost identical. The only difference I've been able to find is on the back of the wedge - the relief hole for the chip breaker screw is not identical. I am not sure if this identifies it as a user made plane, or if it is a user modification.

The only identifying marks I have been able to find are:

Both Chip Breakers: + Robt Sorby Sheffield

One iron: Auburn Tool Co., Thistle Brand, Auburn N.Y.

One iron: Spear & Jackson, Warranted, Cast Steel

Additional photos:

If anyone can provide any information on these planes, it would be greatly appreciated.

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About Me

I'm a blended woodworker. If you're wondering what that means, it is someone who uses both hand tools, and power tools.

I fell in love with hand tools when I took a furniture building certificate course, and was introduced to using hand tools for work that it is almost impossible to do with power tools. I prefer hand tools, as I can work when my 3 year old is sleeping, but I'm not afraid to kill some electrons either.

I use whichever seems most appropriate, what time allows, or whatever suits my fancy at the time. (Or whatever version I happen to own.)

Currently I've started to do some turning, some scroll saw work, and continue in the great galoot tradition of partially finished and long delayed furniture and cabinet projects.